Tyson, 54, and Jones, 51, are legends of American boxing but will be making shock comebacks, although it is expected they will wear headgear and use larger gloves.

Jones Jr posted on social media: "I am happy that this fight between me and Mike Tyson will happen! I was always ready and will be ready this time as well."

The California State Athletic Commission told Sky Sports: "The (CSAC) is licensing the Mike Tyson vs Roy Jones Jr match scheduled to take place in Los Angeles in September as an eight-round exhibition match.

"In this match, the referee will have the authority to stop the fight if it strays outside the boundaries of a competitive boxing exhibition.

"Mr. Tyson and Mr. Jones Jr will have to submit all CSAC medical tests for fighters over 40 as well as CSAC's emergency regulations that have been put in place to slow the spread of COVID-19."

Iconic former heavyweight champion Tyson has been posting ferocious clips of himself in training over the past few months fuelling speculation of a first fight since 2005.